U.S. patent application number 15/698747 was filed with the patent office on 2017-12-28 for systems and methods for generation of content alternatives for content management systems using globally aggregated data and metadata.
The applicant listed for this patent is IPAR, LLC. Invention is credited to Joseph L. Spears.
Application Number | 20170371874 15/698747 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43769132 |
Filed Date | 2017-12-28 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20170371874 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Spears; Joseph L. |
December 28, 2017 |
Systems and Methods for Generation of Content Alternatives for
Content Management Systems Using Globally Aggregated Data and
Metadata
Abstract
Computer-implemented systems and methods are provided that
include receiving data or metadata for first content or data or
metadata related to the first content. A first alternative for the
first content is generated, where the first alternative is based
upon data or metadata for the first content or data or metadata
related to the first content, and first aggregated content or
content-related data or metadata associated with multiple content
providers. A selection of the first alternative is received, where
the selection of the first alternative generates first additional
data or metadata for the first content or first additional data or
metadata for content related to the first content.
Inventors: |
Spears; Joseph L.; (Hayward,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
IPAR, LLC |
San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
43769132 |
Appl. No.: |
15/698747 |
Filed: |
September 8, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12697021 |
Jan 29, 2010 |
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15698747 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 16/9535 20190101;
G06F 16/48 20190101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/30 20060101
G06F017/30 |
Claims
1. A computer-implemented method of providing access to a first
content of a first content provider from a content distribution
platform over a network, comprising: receiving, at the distribution
platform, first content data associated with the first content of
the first content provider to be distributed over the network,
wherein the first data includes an attribute of the first content;
accessing interaction data associated with user interactions with
other content via the platform from an interaction data repository,
wherein the other content is associated with content providers
other than the first content provider; filtering the interaction
data based on the attribute of the first content; using the
filtered data to determine a first content access parameter that
has historically maximized content accesses for the other content;
providing the first access parameter for association with the first
content; wherein the first content is accessed from the platform by
users according to the first access parameter.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the automated determination of
the first content access parameter enables the first content
provider to increase accesses of their first content based on
intelligence acquired via observation of access parameters used by
the other content providers in distributing their other
content.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first access parameter is a
content quality or a content resolution parameter.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the first access parameter is a
length of time of access parameter.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first access parameter is
automatically applied to the first content after the first access
parameter is determined.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the attribute is a genre, a
country of origin, a spoken language, a rating, or a participant in
the first content.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the interaction data indicates
accesses of the other content by users.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the interaction data includes
data indicating interactions with the other content that did not
result in accesses of the other content.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the interaction data associated
with content items of multiple content providers is freely shared
amongst multiple content providers using the distribution
platform.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein data indicating accesses of the
first content by users according to the first access parameter is
added to the interaction data repository.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the added data is accessed for
determining and providing an access parameter for another content
provider.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: refreshing the
filtered data; and updating the first access parameter based on a
change in the refreshed filtered data; wherein the first content is
accessed from the platform by users according to the updated first
access parameter.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first access parameter is
updated automatically without human interaction.
14. A computer-implemented system for providing access to a first
content of a first content provider from a content distribution
platform over a network, comprising: one or more data processors; a
computer-readable medium encoded with instructions for commanding
the one or more data processors to execute steps, the steps
including: receiving, at the distribution platform, first content
data associated with the first content of the first content
provider to be distributed over the network, wherein the first data
includes an attribute of the first content; accessing interaction
data associated with user interactions with other content via the
platform from an interaction data repository, wherein the other
content is associated with content providers other than the first
content provider; filtering the interaction data based on the
attribute of the first content; using the filtered data to
determine a first content access parameter that has historically
maximized content accesses for the other content; providing the
first access parameter for association with the first content;
wherein the first content is accessed from the platform by users
according to the first access parameter.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the automated determination of
the first content access parameter enables the first content
provider to increase accesses of their first content based on
intelligence acquired via observation of access parameters used by
the other content providers in distributing their other
content.
16. The system of claim 14, wherein the first access parameter is a
content quality or a content resolution parameter.
17. The system of claim 14, wherein the first access parameter is a
length of time of access parameter.
18. The system of claim 14, wherein the first access parameter is
automatically applied to the first content after the first access
parameter is determined.
19. The system of claim 14, wherein the attribute is a genre, a
country of origin, a spoken language, a rating, or a participant in
the first content.
20. A non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with
instructions for commanding one or more data processors to execute
steps of a method for providing access to a first content of a
first content provider from a content distribution platform over a
network, the steps comprising: receiving, at the distribution
platform, first content data associated with the first content of
the first content provider to be distributed over the network,
wherein the first data includes an attribute of the first content;
accessing interaction data associated with user interactions with
other content via the platform from an interaction data repository,
wherein the other content is associated with content providers
other than the first content provider; filtering the interaction
data based on the attribute of the first content; using the
filtered data to determine a first content access parameter that
has historically maximized content accesses for the other content;
providing the first access parameter for association with the first
content; wherein the first content is accessed from the platform by
users according to the first access parameter.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 12/697,021, filed Jan. 29, 2010, entitled "Systems and Methods
for Generation of Content Alternatives for Content Management
Systems Using Globally Aggregated Data and Metadata," which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to
computer-implemented systems and methods for dynamic management of
content and content-related data and metadata.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Content creators (e.g., filmmakers, television producers,
recording artists, online game developers, etc.) are significantly
limited in their ability to develop and execute content-related
strategies such as processing, marketing, promotion, management,
packaging, merchandising, fulfillment, delivery, distribution,
licensing, and enforcement of their own content and content-related
data. Effective mastering and implementation of such efforts is
typically beyond the capabilities of content creators because such
efforts typically require marketing and/or distribution resources
that are unavailable to the content creators. Because of this
limitation, content creators often seek to enter into
content-related agreements in which the content creators relinquish
control with respect to some or all rights in the content (e.g., a
licensing agreement with a film distributor granting various
territory and/or media rights).
[0004] One drawback with traditional content-related agreements
(e.g., in the entertainment industry) is that they are rarely
available to a content creator (e.g., an independent filmmaker,
television producer, or game developer). In other words, often only
the most well-known content creators are able to secure a
content-related agreement (e.g., a distribution agreement,
assignment, or license) with a third party content provider (e.g.,
a distributor, subdistributor, network, broadcaster, syndicator,
publisher, assignee, or licensee). Moreover, even when a content
creator is able to secure a content-related agreement, the terms
are often very one-sided favoring the content provider. Thus, these
content-related agreements are often unfairly restrictive to the
content creator, limiting additional marketing or distribution of
content for a set amount of time (e.g., until costs advanced or
expended pursuant to the agreement are recouped).
[0005] Additionally, often such agreements (i) do not contain any
provisions that impose a duty on the content provider to actively
market or promote the content creator's content, and/or (ii) the
content creator does not have sufficient leverage over the content
provider to enforce a provision requiring active marketing or
promotion of the content. As a result, these agreements can be
highly disadvantageous to a content creator for many reasons. For
example, over the term of such an agreement, the value of the
content is often diminished while the content creator awaits the
expiration of the agreement. Moreover, any failure of the content
provider to actively market or promote the content can postpone or
preclude any potential revenue that may be derived from the
content. This can prolong the time it takes for the content creator
to recoup the costs associated with creating the content, and in
some instances, preclude such recoupment altogether. This can
create a cash flow burden on the content creator. Additionally, the
terms of such agreements rarely require the content distributor,
subdistributor, assignee, or licensee to keep the content creator
informed of the success or progress of any content-related
strategies.
[0006] Thus, what is needed in the art are systems and methods for
empowering content creators to market and distribute their own
content without entering into onerous one-sided agreements with
content providers, such as distributors, subdistributors,
assignees, or licensees.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present disclosure addresses the need in the art.
Systems and methods are provided for empowering content creators
(e.g., initial copyright owners; "authors," as defined under U.S.
copyright law; and those acquiring ownership of media content, such
as assignees) to market and distribute their own content without
entering into onerous one-sided agreements with content
distributors. Additionally, systems and methods are provided for
empowering content providers (e.g., third party distributors,
subdistributors, broadcasters, networks, syndicators, assignees,
and licensees) to market and distribute (including, without
limitation, subdistribution, broadcasting, syndication, assignment,
and licensing of) content when the content provider is unable to
exploit the content through other distribution channels.
[0008] In accordance with the teachings provided herein, systems
and methods for content and content-related data and metadata
processing, marketing, promotion, management, packaging,
merchandising, fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and
enforcement are provided. For example, a system and method can be
configured to receive data and metadata corresponding to content. A
first alternative for the content may be generated, where the first
alternative is based on the data and metadata of the content as
well as the aggregated content or content-related data for metadata
for related content from multiple different content providers.
Furthermore, additional content-related data and metadata can be
generated from the selection of the first alternative. The
additional data or metadata can be used to generate aggregated
content or content-related data. Multiple distinct content
providers can then be informed that the aggregated content and
content-related data and metadata has been generated.
[0009] Systems or methods may further be configured to use the
aggregated data and metadata, generated statistics and generated
data and metadata in combination with existing content-related data
and metadata to generate one or more reports and display the one or
more reports to multiple content providers. Reports to the content
providers may further include data related to the content
associated with the content provider as well as aspects of the
content associated with another content provider but related to the
content.
[0010] Systems or methods may further be configured where a second
alternative corresponding to the content may be dynamically
generated, where the second alternative is based upon the generated
additional metadata.
[0011] Systems or methods may further be configured to dynamically
generate a second alternative and may further include informing a
content provider that the first alternative has been selected,
receiving instructions to construct a second alternative in
real-time, constructing the second alternative in real-time, and
displaying the second alternative. Systems or methods may also
compare the generated statistics to a predetermined threshold.
[0012] Systems or methods may also be configured so that the data
and metadata corresponding to the content may include one or more
content attributes, where each attribute is individually weighted.
The first alternative and the second alternative may be activated
and deactivated independent of one another.
[0013] As another example, computer-implemented systems and methods
may include receiving data or metadata for first content or data or
metadata related to the first content. A first alternative for the
first content may be generated, where the first alternative is
based upon data or metadata for the first content or data or
metadata related to the first content, and first aggregated content
or content-related data or metadata associated with multiple
content providers. A selection of the first alternative may be
received, where the selection of the first alternative generates
first additional data or metadata for the first content or first
additional data or metadata for content related to the first
content.
[0014] Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in
this specification can be implemented to realize one or more of the
following advantages. A content creator is able to develop and
execute one or more content-related strategies (e.g., processing,
marketing, promotion, management, packaging, merchandising,
fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and enforcement)
for content owned by, or licensed to, them at a cost that is not
prohibitive and for a flexible duration. Additionally, a content
creator is provided data (e.g., one or more data elements) for use
in developing and executing content strategies that best suit the
content. Data is also provided to the content creator for measuring
the success or failure of a content strategy. Using the data, a
content creator can monitor and dynamically adjust a content
strategy. A content creator can use content-related data to
efficiently identify and reach specific (e.g., targeted) audiences.
A content creator can also collaborate with one or more audience
members (e.g., to expand content awareness). Additionally, content
creators can collaborate with one or more other content providers
(e.g., to develop content-related strategies corresponding to the
content of one or more collaborating content creators). Further, a
content provider is empowered to market and distribute a content
creator's content in instances where such third party distributors
or licensees do not otherwise have access to certain distribution
or marketing channels/verticals, exploitation outlets, or
geographic territories due to a lack of industry clout and/or
connections, available funds, staffing, etc.
[0015] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will
become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an example system for
content and content-related data and metadata processing,
marketing, promotion, management, packaging, merchandising,
fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and
enforcement.
[0017] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary display of certain components
within a content management system.
[0018] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary display of additional components
within a content management system.
[0019] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary interface for use by a content
creator.
[0020] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary interface for a catalog
control.
[0021] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary interface for adding or editing
content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0022] FIG. 7 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0023] FIG. 8 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0024] FIG. 9 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0025] FIG. 10 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0026] FIG. 11 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0027] FIG. 12 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0028] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary interface for creating offers
using a control within the catalog manager.
[0029] FIG. 14 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages.
[0030] FIG. 15 shows an example of an interface for creating an
offer.
[0031] FIG. 16 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages.
[0032] FIG. 17 shows another example of an interface for creating
an offer.
[0033] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary up-sell interface for creating an
up-sell option using a control within the catalog manager.
[0034] FIG. 19 shows an exemplary interface for use when
interacting with one or more up-sell licensing packages.
[0035] FIGS. 20-20B show an exemplary cross-sell interface for
creating a cross-sell option using a control within the catalog
manager.
[0036] FIG. 21 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more cross-sell licensing packages.
[0037] FIG. 22 shows an example of an indirect interface for
creating an insider offer using a control within the catalog
manager.
[0038] FIG. 23 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more pitch licensing packages.
[0039] FIGS. 24-24G show an example of an interface for use by an
industry insider.
[0040] FIG. 25 shows an example of an interface for setting and
editing user account settings.
[0041] FIG. 26 shows an example of an interface for viewing account
activity.
[0042] FIG. 27 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0043] FIG. 28 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0044] FIG. 29 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0045] FIG. 30 shows an example of an interface for use by a user
when interacting with the system.
[0046] FIG. 31 shows an example of an interface for browsing
content.
[0047] FIG. 32 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with an
example control.
[0048] FIG. 33 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with another
example control.
[0049] FIG. 34 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with another
example control.
[0050] FIG. 35 shows an example of an expanded interface for use by
a user when interacting with the system.
[0051] FIG. 35A shows an exemplary interface including a licensing
package upgrade option.
[0052] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary interface including an additional
"reviews" control.
[0053] FIG. 37 shows an example of an interface displaying review
data in an expanded viewing area.
[0054] FIG. 38 shows an example of an interface that includes an
additional "tags" control.
[0055] FIG. 39 shows an example of an interface displaying tag data
in an expanded viewing area.
[0056] FIG. 40 shows an example of an interface including an
exemplary activity report.
[0057] FIG. 41 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0058] FIG. 42 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0059] FIG. 43 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0060] FIG. 44 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0061] FIG. 45 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0062] FIG. 46 shows an example of an interface including a pie
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0063] FIG. 47 shows an example of an interface including a pie
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0064] FIG. 48 shows an example of an interface including a bar
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0065] FIG. 49 shows an example of an interface including a bar
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0066] FIG. 50 is a flow diagram depicting an exemplary method for
empowering content creators to market their own content without
entering into onerous one-sided agreements with content promoters
and marketers.
[0067] Like reference numbers and designations in the various
drawings indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0068] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an example system for
content and content-related data and metadata processing,
marketing, promotion, management, packaging, merchandising,
fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and
enforcement.
[0069] System 100 can be a computer-implemented environment wherein
one or more users 101 can interact with a content management system
105 hosted on one or more servers 102 through a network 103. The
content management system 105 contains software operations or
routines for solving a content management problem. The users 101
can interact with the content management system 105 through a
number of ways, such as over one or more networks 103. One or more
servers 102 accessible through the network(s) 102 can host the
content management system 105. It should be understood that the
content management system 105 could also be provided on a
stand-alone computer for access by a user.
[0070] The content-management system 105 can be an integrated
web-based analysis tool that provides users flexibility and
functionality for performing content management determinations and
analysis or can be a wholly automated system. One or more data
stores 104 can store the data to be analyzed by the content
management system 105 as well as any intermediate or final data
generated by the content management system 105. For example, data
store(s) 104 can store raw or derived content-related data (e.g.,
metadata), for use in determining actions to be taken (e.g., based
on particular analysis or constraints). Examples of data store(s)
40 can include relational database management systems (RDBMS), or a
multi-dimensional database (MDDB), such as an Online Analytical
Processing (OLAP) database, etc.
[0071] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary display 200 of certain components
within a content management system (e.g., a system for FIG. 1 shows
a block diagram of an example system for content and
content-related data and metadata processing, marketing, promotion,
management, packaging, merchandising, fulfillment, delivery,
distribution, licensing, and enforcement). In some implementations,
the system can include a catalog 201. The catalog can include
static elements (e.g., data) corresponding to aspects of the
content that remain constant (e.g., or unchanging), in the system.
For example, a catalog can include static elements corresponding to
aspects of multimedia content, such as video (e.g., film) content
202. In this example, video content 202 can include certain video
attributes (e.g., title, plot, genre, ratings, credits, artwork,
etc.). In other examples, a catalog can include static elements
corresponding to other types of multimedia content such as game
content, audio content, e-books, software, electronic photos, and
electronic artwork. Content can be added or deleted from the
catalog, thus the catalog can be dynamic. The content within the
catalog (e.g., the plot of a movie within the catalog), is editable
but does not generally change and thus the content can be static.
Thus, catalog data can be a globally constant description (e.g., of
defined structured data fields) that includes individual references
corresponding to the content of each object (e.g., a video)
individually.
[0072] In some implementations, the system can include one or more
promotional functionalities 203. For example, a promotional
functionality 203 can include a limited ability to promote content
without the ability to sell the content. In this example, a content
creator can promote content prior to the content being available to
a user (e.g., for purchase). In another example, a third party
(e.g., someone other than the content creator or the content user)
can create promotions (e.g., as an influencer) for a larger
audience. Additionally, a third party can receive a commission for
promoting content without having a license to sell the content.
This aspect will be discussed in greater detail with respect to
FIGS. 22-24 below.
[0073] In some implementations, a promotional functionality 203 can
include an ability to up-sell content or content properties (e.g.,
using a license). For example, a content creator can grant a
license to a user allowing the user to use content. Additionally,
the terms of a license can be expanded with respect to a property
of content (e.g., quality or resolution). In an example of such
implementations, when a user exhibits an interest in paying a first
amount for a limited use license to use content for a predefined
time period, the content creator can dynamically create and offer
the user another license option to use the same content at a second
amount and for a different (e.g., a greater) period of time. For
example, when a user selects a content rental option or rents
content (e.g., a video) for $5.00, the content creator (e.g., the
filmmaker), is notified or otherwise made aware (e.g., by
requesting a report). Once aware, the content creator can
dynamically create and offer a content purchase option (e.g.,
reduce a purchase price from $15.00 to $11.00), to that user. This
aspect will be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS.
18-19 below.
[0074] In some implementations, promotional functionality 203 can
include an ability to cross-sell content. The cross-sell option can
allow the content creator the ability to familiarize the user with
more content (e.g., content the user may not otherwise be aware
of). For example, when a user exhibits an interest in learning
about content, the content creator can dynamically create a
reference to related content. In this example, when a user selects
a page on which content is hosted, the content creator is notified
or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content creator can
dynamically create a reference to related content (e.g., if you
like A, you may be interested in B).
[0075] In another example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user another license option for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a content rental or purchase option
corresponding to first content (e.g., a video), the content creator
is notified or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content
creator can dynamically create and offer a content purchase option
for similar second content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy B for
$3.00).
[0076] In yet another example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user an additional license for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a web page or panel upon which content
is hosted, the content creator is notified or otherwise made aware.
Once aware, the content creator can dynamically create and offer a
content purchase option for the content on the current webpage or
panel as well as one or more additional purchase options for the
similar content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy A and B together
for $10.00). These cross-sell aspects will be discussed in greater
detail with respect to FIGS. 20, 20A, 20B, and 21 below.
[0077] In some implementations, using the catalog 201, one or more
licensing options or alternatives (e.g., licensing packages 204),
can be dynamically generated by a content creator using the system.
In other implementations, using the catalog 201 and the promotional
functionality 203, one or more licensing options (e.g., licensing
packages 204), can be dynamically generated by a content creator
using the system. Licensing packages 204 can include the price and
terms of a licensing agreement between a content creator and a
user. A user can be concurrently presented with one or more
licensing options. For example, when the content is film, licensing
options can include but are not limited to a "high definition"
("HD") option (i.e. 720p video resolution or greater), an option
that defines the terms of a rental agreement, an option that
defines the terms of a purchase agreement, an option indicating
whether the content is downloadable, or an option indicating
whether the user has access to bonus content.
[0078] Additionally, in some implementations, one or more
additional licensing packages 204 can be dynamically generated and
presented to the user based upon user interaction with the system.
For example, as noted above, a content creator can dynamically
offer the user an up-sell or a cross-sell based upon a user
selection. In some implementations, when a user executes a first
license package 204 (e.g., rents content), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., purchase the rented
content), the first license can expire upon the execution (e.g.,
acceptance) of the second offer. In other implementations, when a
user executes a first licensing package 204 (e.g., purchase of a
standard definition version of a film), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., rent a high definition
version of the film), the first license can run concurrently with
the second offer. In still other implementations, when a user
executes a first licensing package 204 (e.g., purchase of a
standard definition version of a film), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., rent a high definition
version of the film), the first license can be suspended for the
duration of the second offer. For example, the first license can be
selectively or automatically reinstated upon completion of the
second offer.
[0079] Additionally, in some implementations, licensing packages
204 can be activated and deactivated. For example, a licensing
package 204 can be activated or deactivated manually (e.g., by the
content creator), automatically (e.g., by the system), or in
accordance with one or more predefined settings (e.g., set by a
content creator). Dynamic creation of licensing packages 204 will
be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 18-24
below.
[0080] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary display 300 of additional
relationships within the system. In addition to relationships
between the catalog 201, the promotional functionality 203, and the
licensing packages 204, in some implementations, the system can
include additional relationships. Additional relationships can
exist among content creators (e.g., participants 301), and the
users of content (e.g., audience 306). Relationships can be
developed based upon interactions with one or more system
components. For example, as noted above, using the catalog 201 and
the promotional functionality 203, a participant 301 can offer one
or more licensing packages 204 to an audience member 306 (e.g., a
audience). In this example, participants 301 can include a content
provider such as anyone offering a license for content (e.g., a
filmmaker or a distributor), or anyone participating in the
creation of the content (e.g., actors, writers, or directors).
[0081] In some implementations, the system can include a searchable
index 302 which can facilitate site navigation and organization of
raw (e.g., unprocessed) and derived (e.g., processed) data
corresponding to user interaction with the system. In some
implementations, the index 302 can include a hierarchical
arrangement of un-weighted attributes corresponding to content in
the system. In other implementations, the index 302 can include a
hierarchical arrangement of weighted attributes corresponding to
content in the system. Additionally, attributes can be weighted
differently according to a plurality of factors or words. For
example, a content creator (e.g., a filmmaker), can determine that
a particular word is of greater importance when searching the
index. In this example, this term can be assigned a greater weight
and thus it would appear higher up on a list of search results for
that term.
[0082] Audience 306 can interact with the index 302 (e.g., to
search and locate data). In some implementations, based upon
audience 306 interaction with the index 302, static data from the
catalog 201 and one or more licensing packages 204 can be presented
to audience 306. In some implementations, site activity 304 (e.g.,
audience interaction with a website), can be indexed 302 and stored
for later analysis. In these implementations, audience interaction
can include all activity up to and including a purchase. Thus, even
if a purchase is not made, data related to audience interaction
with content on the website can be indexed and used for later
analysis. In these implementations, audience interaction can
include all activity following a purchase. Thus, post purchase data
related to audience interaction with content on the website can
also be indexed and used for later analysis.
[0083] In some implementations, audience 306 can provide feedback
to the system using an editorial functionality 303. For example,
audience 306 can critique content (e.g., write a review), or rate
content. In another example, audience 306 can participate in a
conversation or on-line dialog about the content. In this example,
audience 306 can participate in a chat room dialog with one or more
participants 301. In yet another example, an audience member 306
can generate a review that can be posted or displayed (e.g., on a
social network website), where the audience member 306 and one or
more other users can participate in a dialog about the content.
[0084] In some implementations, site activity 304 and editorial
information 303 are combined to generate intelligence 305 that can
be used to generate new promotional functionalities 203 and new
licensing packages 204. In some implementations, new promotional
functionalities 203 and new licensing packages 204 can be based on
intelligence 305 and generated manually (e.g., by a participant
301). In some implementations, new promotional functionalities 203
can be generated automatically (e.g., by the system), based upon
prior participant 301 or audience 306 interactions with the system
or based on one or more predefined settings.
[0085] In some implementations, intelligence 305 can include raw
(e.g., unprocessed) and/or derived (e.g., processed) data.
Intelligence 305 can be dynamic (e.g., the return of content by a
dissatisfied audience can automatically change the intelligence
305). In some implementations, intelligence 305 can be processed
and statistics can be automatically generated (e.g., in real-time)
based upon website activity (e.g., audience 306 interaction).
Generated statistics can be used (e.g., by the system) to generate
one or more reports (e.g., based upon audience 306 interaction).
For example, reports can be used to examine account histories and
make recommendations (e.g., for a single account or for a group of
related accounts). Reports will be discussed in greater detail
below with respect to FIGS. 40-49. In some implementations,
generated statistics can be compared to one or more pre-defined
benchmarks or thresholds to determine whether promotional
functionalities 203 and licensing packages 204 need to be adjusted.
Adjustments to promotional functionalities 203 and licensing
packages 204 can allow a participant 301 to define and refine
efficient ways to target new and existing audience members 306
based upon system intelligence 305.
[0086] Defining and refining efficient ways to target new and
existing audience members 306 based upon system intelligence 305
can be done dynamically. For example, as audience 306 interest
changes (e.g., over time), a content creator can use the system to
evaluate user interest in real-time (e.g., automatically).
Additionally, a content creator can adjust promotional
functionalities 203 and licensing packages 204 in real-time. These
adjustments can be stored along with data and logic used to make
the adjustments. Stored data and logic corresponding to a content
creators adjustments can then be used by the system to dynamically
evaluate user interest (e.g., in real-time) and without human
intervention (e.g., by the content creator). Dynamic evaluations
made by the system can also be adjusted by a content creator at any
time.
[0087] In some implementations, static catalog data 201 can be a
globally constant description (e.g., of defined structured data
fields) that includes individual references corresponding to the
content of each object (e.g., a video) individually. In these
implementations, a globally constant description of static catalog
data 201 can allow a content creator to organize data in accordance
with user interest and user preference with respect to content
interaction. Additionally, other data corresponding to the
distribution and management of content (e.g., content price and
related terms of restriction), can be defined dynamically (e.g., in
accordance with intelligence 305). This decoupling facilitates data
aggregation, cross-content recommendations, and the dynamic (e.g.,
"on-the-fly") creation and distribution of licensing packages
(e.g., in real-time). For instance, all users can benefit from the
ability to interact with universal editorial information 303 while
concurrently having individualized licensing packages 204 available
(e.g., customized on an individual user basis).
[0088] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary interface 400 for use by a content
creator (e.g., a participant). Using the interface 400, the content
creator can manage content. For example, content interface 400 can
include one or more controls for managing 401 content. Controls for
managing content can include, but are not limited to, a catalog
control 402, a reports control 403, and an ad campaign control 404.
Additionally, interface 400 can include a viewing area 405 (e.g., a
window), for interacting with (e.g., viewing), content.
[0089] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary interface 500 for a catalog
control 402. Activating catalog control 402 can cause the system to
generate catalog interface 500. In some implementations, catalog
interface 500 can include catalog manager 501. In these
implementations, catalog manager 501 can include one or more
controls that can be used to interact with content in catalog 201.
Exemplary controls can include any combination of film catalog
control 502, offers control 503, up-sell control 504, cross-sell
control 505, and indirect control 506. Activating the film catalog
control 502 can cause the system to generate a list of content
(e.g., film content) created by the content creator using the
system (e.g., as recognized by a unique challenge such as a log-in
username and password). The list can include any combination of a
visual representation of the content 507, a textual description of
the content 508, and a visual indication 509 (e.g., a checkbox)
indicative of whether the content is active or inactive (e.g., a
checked box can indicate active content and an unchecked box can
indicate inactive content). In some implementations, using an add
control 510, the content creator can add content to the system, and
using the edit control 511, the content creator can edit content in
the system.
[0090] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary interface 600 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). The interface 600 can
include one or more controls for adding or editing content. For
example, interface 600 can include any combination of presentation
control 601, categories control 602, reception control 603,
promotion content control 604, bonus content control 605,
territories control 606, and restrictions control 607. Activating
presentation control 601 can cause the system to generate
presentation interface 608 including one or more areas for entering
information about content. For example, presentation interface 608
can include title area 609 (e.g., for entering the title of film
content), and plot area 610 (e.g., for entering text regarding the
plot of film content). The presentation interface 608 can also
include active control 611 corresponding to visual indication 509
of FIG. 5. Selecting active control 611 can be an indication that
the content is active, and de-selecting active control 611 can be
an indication that the content is inactive. Additionally, selecting
active control 611 can cause the system to check visual indication
509 for the content on interface 500 of FIG. 5 (e.g., indicating
that the content is active).
[0091] FIG. 7 shows another example interface 700 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating the categories
control 602 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate categories
interface 701 including one or more areas for entering information
about content. For example, categories interface 701 can include
cast and crew area 702 (e.g., for entering information about the
cast and crew of film content), genres area 703 (e.g., for entering
information about the genre of film content), and ratings area 704
(e.g., for entering information about the rating of film
content).
[0092] FIG. 8 shows another exemplary interface 800 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating reception
control 603 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate reception
interface 801 including one or more areas for entering information
about content. For example, reception interface 801 can include any
combination of awards area 802 (e.g., for entering information
about awards given to film content), festivals area 803 (e.g., for
entering information about festivals including film content), and
reviews area 804 (e.g., for entering information about professional
reviews of film content).
[0093] FIG. 9 shows another exemplary interface 900 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating promotion
content control 604 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate
promotion content interface 901 including one or more areas for
entering information about content. For example, promotion content
interface 901 can include any combination of trailers area 905
(e.g., for entering information about trailers of the film
content), key frames area 902 (e.g., for entering information about
still images or key frames from the film content), and memorable
quotes area 903 (e.g., for entering information about memorable
quotes within the film content). Promotion content interface 901
can also include length of preview control 904 (e.g., for setting a
length of a preview of content).
[0094] FIG. 10 shows another exemplary interface 1000 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating bonus
content control 605 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate
bonus content interface 1001 including one or more areas for
entering information about bonus content. In some implementations,
bonus content can include only previously existing content (e.g.,
edited in a new way). In some implementations, bonus content can
include both previously existing content as well as new content
(e.g., previously existing content with new annotations and/or
commentary). In some implementations, bonus content can include
only new content (e.g., related but previously unavailable
content). For example, bonus content interface 1000 can include
bonus videos area 905 (e.g., for entering information about bonus
videos corresponding to or available with the film content). In
some implementations, a content creator can make bonus content
available dynamically as a licensing package. In these
implementations, the bonus content licensing packages can run
independent of or dependent upon any other licensing agreement
(e.g., rental or purchase license). Additionally, a content
provider can make bonus content available on the system
dynamically, and at any time. Any bonus content made available on
the system can be downloaded by a user at any time, once the user
has purchased the corresponding bonus content licensing
agreement.
[0095] FIG. 11 shows another exemplary interface 1100 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating
territories control 606 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate
territories interface 1101 including one or more areas for entering
information about content. For example, territories interface 1101
can include preview area 1102 for selecting one or more geographic
regions (e.g., cities, states, towns, regions, countries, sets of
countries, etc.) and/or Internet domains (e.g., a predetermined set
of IP addresses, top level domains, country code top level domains,
websites, Internet service providers (ISPs), etc.), from which the
content creator will allow users to preview the content (e.g., the
film content). In the example depicted in FIG. 11, if the content
creator would like to exclude any users within a particular country
from being able to preview the content, the content creator can
select that country (e.g., by highlighting the country and
activating a select button). Once selected, the country will appear
in no preview area 1103 and users in that country will not be
permitted to preview the content.
[0096] In another example, the content creator can choose to not
permit previews of the content in all countries except a select
few. In this example, the content creator can select all the
countries listed in preview area 1102 (e.g., by highlighting those
countries and activating a select button). The list of countries
will then appear in no preview area 1103. To select particular
countries allowed to preview the content, the content creator would
then select that country in no preview area 1103 (e.g., by
highlighting the country and activating a select button). Once
selected, the country will appear in preview area 1102 and users in
that country will be permitted to preview the content. In some
implementations, territories interface 1101 can assist a content
creator in conforming to the terms of a geographically restrictive
third-party licensing agreement.
[0097] FIG. 12 shows another exemplary interface 1200 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating
restrictions control 607 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to
generate restrictions interface 1201 including one or more areas
for entering information about content. For example, restrictions
interface 1200 can include manage profanities area 1202 used to
restrict the type of language allowed in tags and reviews (e.g.,
submitted by audiences providing feedback to the system using
editorial functionality 303). The manage profanities area 1202 can
include any combination of tolerance to graphic language area 1203
(e.g., indicating a permitted level of tolerance), and types of
language to restrict area 1204 (e.g., by subject matter).
[0098] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary interface 1300 for creating
offers (e.g., licensing packages) using a control (e.g., the offers
control 503), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). In some
implementations, offers (e.g., licensing packages) can be
dynamically created (e.g., by a content creator) at any time, and
offered as a licensing option (e.g., to a user). In some
implementations, interface 1300 can include one or more controls
for defining a licensing package. For example, a licensing option
can include the purchase of content (e.g., film content). In this
example, using offer type control 1301, a content provider (e.g., a
participant), can select a purchase option. Additionally, a content
provider can set a price for the purchase option using the price
control 1302. In some implementations, additional controls (e.g.,
checkboxes), can be used to set one or more parameters of a
licensing package (e.g., whether a licensing package is active
1303, whether a content download will be allowed 1304, or whether
bonus content can be downloaded 1305). Once all the terms of a
licensing package have been determined, the licensing package can
be generated and displayed.
[0099] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary interface 1400 for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages. As noted above,
once a licensing package has been generated, the licensing package
can be displayed. In some implementations, the display for a
purchase licensing package can include purchase button 1401.
Activating purchase button 1401 allows the user (e.g., an
audience), to purchase content associated with a purchase licensing
package. In some implementations, additional information can be
displayed (e.g., a description of the licensing package 1402, or a
price of the licensing package 1403). Additionally, as noted above,
selecting active control 1303 (from FIG. 13), can cause the system
to check visual indication 1404 for the purchase licensing package
on interface 1400 (e.g., indicating that the purchase licensing
package is active).
[0100] In some implementations, the system can also generate one or
more rental licensing packages. For example, the system can
generate a rental licensing package in which a user can use (e.g.,
play) the content any number of times within a period of time
defined by the license. In another example, the system can generate
a rental licensing package in which a user can use (e.g., play) the
content n number of times (e.g., one time, two times, three times,
. . . n times).
[0101] FIG. 15 shows an exemplary interface 1500 for creating an
offer (e.g., a rental licensing package). FIG. 16 shows an
exemplary interface 1600 for use when interacting with one or more
licensing packages. In some implementations, each licensing package
can be displayed separately. In some implementations, activation of
purchase button 1401 can be tied to rental button 1402 (e.g.,
selection of purchase button 1401 can deactivate the licensing
package associated with a previously selected rental button 1402).
In some implementations, each licensing package can be activated
and deactivated separately. Thus, in these implementations,
purchase button 1401 can be activated and deactivated separately
and distinctly from rental button 1402 (e.g., activation of
purchase button 1401 can have no effect upon the state of rental
button 1402). FIG. 17 shows an exemplary interface 1700 for
creating another offer (e.g., a play once licensing package). One
of skill in the art will appreciate that the play once licensing
package in FIG. 17 is just one example of an n-number of times
licensing package, and that the present disclosure fully
contemplates an n-number of time licensing package where n is any
positive integer.
[0102] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary up-sell interface 1800 for
creating an up-sell (e.g., an up-sell licensing package) using a
control (e.g., the up-sell control 504), within catalog manager 501
(from FIG. 5). In some implementations, an up-sell (e.g., an
up-sell licensing package) can be dynamically created (e.g., by a
content creator) at any time, and offered as a licensing option
(e.g., to a user). In some implementations, interface 1800 can
include one or more controls for defining an up-sell licensing
package. As noted above, an up-sell can include an ability to
up-sell content (e.g., using a licensing package). In these
implementations, when a user exhibits an interest in paying a first
amount for a limited use license to use content for a predefined
time period (e.g., a day), the content creator can dynamically
create and offer the user another license option to use the same
content at a second amount and for a different period of time
(e.g., forever).
[0103] Referring to FIG. 18, a content creator can create an
up-sell option for any content created and/or offered by the
content creator (e.g., source content 1801), as well as an upgrade
1802 to any content created and/or offered by the content creator.
Up-sell interface 1800 can include one or more areas for entering
data corresponding to the up-sell. For example, up-sell interface
1800 can include any combination of price area 1803 (e.g., for
setting an up-sell price), currency area 1804 (e.g., for setting a
type of currency for the up-sell), start date 1805 (e.g., for
setting a start date for the up-sell offer), end date 1806 (e.g.,
for setting an end date for the up-sell offer), and active control
1807 (e.g., for indicating whether the up-sell licensing package is
active). Once submitted, an up-sell licensing package can be
displayed (e.g., to a user). FIG. 19 shows an exemplary interface
1900 for use when interacting with one or more up-sell licensing
packages. As noted above, selecting active control 1807 can cause
the system to check visual indication 1901 for the up-sell
licensing package on interface 1900 (e.g., indicating that the
up-sell licensing package is active).
[0104] FIG. 20 shows an exemplary cross-sell interface 2000 for
creating a cross-sell option (e.g., a cross-sell licensing
package), using a control (e.g., cross-sell control 505), within
catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). In some implementations, a
cross-sell option (e.g., a cross-sell licensing package), can be
dynamically created (e.g., by a content creator), at any time, and
offered as a licensing option (e.g., to a user). In some
implementations, interface 2000 can include one or more controls
for defining a cross-sell licensing package. As noted above, a
cross-sell can include an ability to cross-sell related or
unrelated content (e.g., using a licensing package). For example,
when a user exhibits an interest in licensing content, the content
creator can dynamically create and offer the user another license
option for similar content.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 20, a content creator can create a
cross-sell option for any content. Cross-sell interface 2000 can
include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. For example, cross-sell interface 2000 can
include any combination of start date 2001 (e.g., for setting a
start date for the cross-sell offer), end date 2002 (e.g., for
setting an end date for the cross-sell offer), and active control
2003 (e.g., for indicating whether the cross-sell licensing package
is active). Once submitted, a cross-sell licensing package can be
displayed.
[0106] FIG. 20A shows an exemplary license cross-sell interface
2010 for creating a cross-sell option. Cross-sell interface 2010
can include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. For example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user another license option for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a content rental or purchase option
corresponding to first content (e.g., a video), the content creator
is notified or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content
creator can dynamically create and offer a content purchase option
for similar second content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy B for
$3.00).
[0107] FIG. 20B shows an exemplary bundle cross-sell interface 2020
for creating a cross-sell option. Cross-sell interface 2020 can
include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. In yet another example, when a user exhibits an
interest in licensing content, the content creator can dynamically
create and offer the user an additional licensing bundle for
similar content. In this example, when a user selects a page on
which content is hosted, the content creator is notified or
otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content creator can
dynamically create and offer a content purchase option for the
content on the current page as well as one or more additional
purchase options for the similar content (e.g., if you like A, you
can buy A and B together for $10.00), as part of a bundle of
content.
[0108] FIG. 21 shows an exemplary interface 2100 for use when
interacting with one or more cross-sell licensing packages. As
noted above, selecting active control 2003 can cause the system to
check visual indication 2101 for the cross-sell licensing package
on interface 2100 (e.g., indicating that the cross-sell licensing
package is active).
[0109] FIG. 22 shows an exemplary indirect interface 2000 for
creating an insider offer (e.g., a pitch licensing package) using a
control (e.g., indirect control 506), within catalog manager 501
(from FIG. 5). In some implementations, an insider offer (e.g., a
pitch licensing package), can be dynamically created at any time
(e.g., by a content creator), and offered as a licensing option
(e.g., to a third party user such as an industry insider). In some
implementations, interface 2200 can include one or more controls
for defining an insider offer (e.g., a limited ability to promote
content without the ability to sell the content). A content creator
can create an insider offer for any content. Insider interface 2200
can include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to an
insider offer. For example, insider interface 2200 can include
pitch area 2201 for indicating one or more terms of a pitch
licensing package, and active control 2202 (e.g., for indicating
whether the pitch licensing package is active). Once submitted, the
pitch licensing package can be displayed.
[0110] FIG. 23 shows an exemplary interface 2300 for use when
interacting with one or more pitch licensing packages. As noted
above, selecting the active control 2202 can cause the system to
check the visual indication 2301 for the pitch licensing package on
interface 2300 (e.g., indicating that the pitch licensing package
is active). In some implementations, when a third party (e.g., an
influencer or industry insider) indicates an interest in content
(e.g., by selecting the content), the content creator can send the
industry insider a pitch licensing package. In these
implementations, the content creator can be notified of the insider
interest (e.g., by the system) and/or discover the insider interest
by monitoring the system (e.g., by generating one or more
reports).
[0111] In some implementations, an insider can be any third party
granted the right to perform one or more of the following functions
with respect to content and content-related data: processing,
marketing, promotion, management, packaging, merchandising,
fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and enforcement of
content and/or content-related data. In some implementations, an
insider can be considered a content provider.
[0112] A content provider is the content creator or any third party
granted the right to market or distribute (including, without
limitation, subdistribution, syndication, and licensing of) a
content creator's content or content-related data or metadata. A
content provider can include, but is not limited to, a distributor,
subdistributor, broadcaster, syndicator, assignee, and licensee of
content and/or content-related data. In some implementations, a
content provider can perform any and all functions associated with
the systems and methods provided herein.
[0113] It should be understood that any and all functions performed
by a content creator can also be performed by a content
provider.
[0114] In some implementations, an insider interest functionality
allows the insider to limit the number of pitch licensing packages
they receive (e.g., packages are only sent when interest is
expressly indicated). Additionally, content creators are able to
monitor insider interest. For example, when an insider indicates
interest in content, the content creator can run a report to see
whether additional different insider interest exists. If the report
is indicative of additional different insider interest, the content
creator can choose to negotiate with the insider. If the report is
indicative of no additional insider interest, the content creator
can choose to accept an insider offer without further negotiation.
FIG. 24 shows an exemplary interface 2400 for use by an industry
insider (e.g., a third party promoter or influencer). Using the
interface 2400, an industry insider can indicate interest in, view,
and express an interest in licensing content.
[0115] In some implementations, when a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party), indicates an interest in promoting
content (e.g., using an ad campaign), the system can generate one
or more content-related advertisements. FIGS. 24A-24G show
exemplary interfaces for interacting with content to create, renew,
generate, and/or display content-related advertisements. FIG. 24A
shows example interface 2410 for use by a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party). FIG. 24B shows exemplary interface 2420
including a list of renewable content-related advertisements 2421
and a link 2422 to facilitate creation of new renewable
content-related advertisements. FIG. 24C shows an exemplary
interface 2430 including one or more areas for entering
content-related data. Using exemplary interface 2430, a party
(e.g., a content creator or a third party), can generate one or
more content-related advertisements. FIG. 24D shows an example
interface 2440 including a summary of a new content-related
advertisement corresponding to the content-related data entered in
FIG. 24C. Using example interface 2440, a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party), can confirm or cancel a new
content-related advertisement. In some implementations, when a new
content-related advertisement is confirmed, the system can generate
a payment screen to facilitate payment.
[0116] FIG. 24E shows an exemplary interface 2450 including one or
more areas for entering content-related data. Using exemplary
interface 2450, a party (e.g., a content creator or a third party),
can renew one or more existing content-related advertisements. FIG.
24F shows an exemplary interface 2460 including a renewal summary
of the content-related advertisement corresponding to the
content-related data entered in FIG. 24E. Using exemplary interface
2460, a party (e.g., a content creator or a third party), can
confirm or cancel the renewal of a content-related advertisement.
In some implementations, when the renewal of a content-related
advertisement is confirmed, the system can generate a payment
screen to facilitate payment.
[0117] FIG. 24G shows an exemplary interface 2470 of search results
(e.g., based upon a search that incorporates one or more
advertisement keywords). Exemplary interface 2470 can be viewed by
any user (e.g., audience member), using the system. Exemplary
interface 2470 can include a graphical depiction of content 2471
(e.g., the promoted video content), corresponding to a
content-related advertisement and one or more content-related
advertisement keywords. Additionally, exemplary interface 2470 can
also include a graphical depiction of search results 2472 (e.g.,
content that corresponds to the search that incorporates the one or
more content-related advertisement keywords).
[0118] FIG. 25 shows an exemplary interface 2500 for setting and
editing user (e.g., audience member), account settings. Interface
2500 can include one or more areas for entering user account
information such as a unique challenge (e.g., a user name and a
password), and any other personal information requested or required
by the system. Interface 2500 can also include an account
preferences area 2501 for setting one or more user account
preferences such as tolerance for strong language setting 2503,
strong language classification filter 2504, and other account
preference options 2505 (e.g., display unrated content, closed
captioning, product and service updates, and profile creation).
Additionally, interface 2500 can also include linked accounts area
2502 for indicating related accounts (e.g., social networking
accounts), and facilitating connection to related accounts.
[0119] FIG. 26 shows an exemplary interface 2600 for viewing
account activity (e.g., active rentals, viewing history, purchases,
or download history). Interface 2600 can include expandable active
rental area 2601 for viewing information corresponding to currently
active rentals. FIG. 27 also shows exemplary interface 2600 for
viewing account activity. Interface 2600 can also include an
expandable viewing history area 2701 for viewing information
corresponding to a user viewing history. FIG. 28 also shows
exemplary interface 2600 for viewing account activity. Interface
2600 can also include an expandable my purchases area 2801 for
viewing information corresponding to the user purchases. FIG. 29
also shows exemplary interface 2600 for viewing account activity.
Interface 2600 can also include an expandable "my download" history
area 2901 for viewing information corresponding to a user download
history.
[0120] FIG. 30 shows an exemplary interface 3000 for use by a user
(e.g., an audience member), when interacting with the system. Using
the interface 3000, a user can interact with content. For example,
interface 3000 can include a viewing area 3001 (e.g., a window),
for interacting with (e.g., viewing), content. In some
implementations, as noted above, content can be categorized
statically (e.g., by the user), or dynamically (e.g., manually by
the user or automatically by the system). In these implementations,
a user can browse categorized content (e.g., by genre or by
popularity).
[0121] FIGS. 31-34 show exemplary interfaces for browsing content.
FIG. 31 shows an exemplary interface 3100 for browsing content.
Interface 3100 can include one or more example controls 3101, 3102,
3103, and 3104 for changing content perspective (e.g., zooming in
(drilling down) on content and zooming out (drilling up) on
content). Interface 3100 includes a depiction of content from the
perspective associated with example control 3101. Selecting another
exemplary control can provide the user with a different perspective
of the content. FIG. 32 shows an exemplary interface 3200 including
a depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3102. FIG. 33 shows an exemplary interface 3300 including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3103. FIG. 34 shows an exemplary interface 3400 including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3104.
[0122] FIGS. 35-39 show exemplary interfaces for interacting with
content. FIG. 35 shows an exemplary interface 3500 that is an
expanded version of interface 3000 (shown in FIG. 30) for use by a
user (e.g., an audience member) when interacting with the system.
Specifically, interface 3000 (from FIG. 30), can be expanded into a
fixed interface 3500 showing additional controls 3502, 3503, and
3504 that can be used to interact with content. For example,
interacting with an "about this" control 3502 (e.g., an "about this
film" control), can cause the system to generate and display data
corresponding to content (e.g., content displayed in viewing area
3001), in expanded viewing area 3501. In some implementations,
interface 3500 can also include one or more content recommendations
3505. In some implementations, one or more licensing packages noted
above (e.g., an up-sell) can be manually (e.g., by a content
creator), or dynamically (e.g., by the system) generated and
displayed to a user. FIG. 35A shows an exemplary interface 3550
including a licensing package upgrade option 3551 (e.g., an
unlimited content download for a purchase price of $71).
Additionally, FIG. 35A includes a larger interface 3000 (from FIG.
30), and a dynamically expanded area that can contain catalog and
editorial information that becomes available after a user has
purchased content. In some implementations, selecting the licensing
package 3551 can cause the system to end any other licensing
package (e.g., a limited rental), corresponding to the same
content.
[0123] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary interface 3600 including
additional "reviews" control 3503 (e.g., a "customer reviews"
control). Interacting with reviews control 3503 can cause the
system to generate and display one or more areas in which a user
(e.g., a customer) can enter data corresponding to a review of
content (e.g., content displayed in viewing area 3001), in expanded
viewing area 3601. Review data can be displayed (e.g., in
accordance with manage profanities area 1202 noted in FIG. 12
above). For example, reviews can be edited automatically by the
system to comply with graphic language area 1203, and types of
language to restrict area 1204 in manage profanities area 1202
(e.g., noted above in FIG. 12). FIG. 37 shows an exemplary
interface 3700 displaying review data in expanded viewing area
3701.
[0124] FIG. 38 shows an exemplary interface 3800 including
additional "tags" control 3504. Interacting with the tags control
3504 can cause the system to generate and display one or more areas
in which a user (e.g., a customer) can enter tag data corresponding
to a content tag (e.g., a tag corresponding to and used to search
for content displayed in viewing area 3001), in expanded viewing
area 3801. Tag data can be displayed (e.g., in accordance with
manage profanities area 1202 noted above). In some implementations,
tags can be edited automatically by the system to comply with
graphic language area 1203, and types of language to restrict area
1204 in manage profanities area 1202. FIG. 39 shows an exemplary
interface 3900 displaying tag data in expanded viewing area
3901.
[0125] In some implementations, as noted with respect to FIG. 3
above, intelligence 305 can be processed and statistics can be
automatically generated (e.g., in real-time), based upon website
activity (e.g., audience 306 interaction). Generated statistics can
be used (e.g., by the system) to generate one or more reports
(e.g., based upon audience 306 interaction). For example, reports
can be used by a content creator to examine account histories and
to make one or more content recommendations or offers (e.g.,
licensing packages). Additionally, content recommendations or
offers can be made available for a single account or for a group of
related accounts.
[0126] Reports can be generated according to one or more parameters
such as report type, report demographic, and report dimension.
Report types can include, but are not limited to business activity
and site activity.
[0127] In some implementations, site activity can denote the
collection of site wide aggregations of system activity which
contains raw and processed statistics, data and metadata for all
content creators and all content associated with the system. In
these implementations, content creators can use the site activity
data to generate reports based on collected, synthesized and
aggregated content and content-related data and metadata in order
to analyze the aggregate activity of all content for all content
creators associated with the system or some subset of this data as
requested in the report filters, settings and parameters.
[0128] In some implementations, business activity can denote the
collection of aggregations of activity related to the content
creator's content which contains raw and processed statistics, data
and metadata for the content creator and all content associated
with the content creator. In these implementations, the content
creator can use the business activity data to generate reports
based on collected, synthesized and aggregated content and
content-related data and metadata in order to analyze the activity
of all content associated with the content creator or some subset
of this data as requested in the report filters, settings and
parameters.
[0129] In some implementations, business activity and site activity
can be further categorized. For example, business activity can be
categorized by revenues, purchases, impressions, streams,
downloads, bookmarks, ratings, reviews, tags, insider interactions,
video search click-throughs, video search ad click-throughs, video
search ad impressions, and referral search ad impressions. Site
activity, for example, can be categorized by visitors, logins,
registrations, revenues, purchases, impressions, streams,
downloads, bookmarks, ratings, reviews, tags, insider interactions,
video search click-throughs, video search ad click-throughs, video
search ad impressions, and referral search ad impressions.
[0130] FIGS. 40-49 show exemplary interfaces for interacting with
content to generate and display reports. FIG. 40 shows exemplary
interface 4000 including an example activity report. In some
implementations, an example activity report can include one or more
selectable options for specifying content selection and for
generating one or more graphic interpretations (e.g., scatter plot,
pie chart, bar chart, etc.), of the selected content. In this
example, an activity report has been generated based upon the
report demographic 4001. Report demographic 4001 can include
selectable region 4002 that can list one or more selectable report
demographic options such as country, gender, or age. In this
example, an activity report has been generated based upon a
selection 4002 of report demographic 4001 country. Additionally, a
selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001 country can cause the
system to generate one or more additional options (e.g., dropdown
menu 4003), for specifying content selection by country. Example
interface 4000 also includes a graphic interpretation 4004 of the
selected content.
[0131] FIG. 41 shows an exemplary interface 4100 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, an activity report has
been generated based upon a selection 4002 of the report
demographic 4001 "gender". Additionally, a selection 4002 of a
report demographic 4001 can cause the system to generate one or
more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4103), for specifying
content selection by gender. Exemplary interface 4100 also includes
a graphic interpretation 4104 of the selected content. FIG. 42
shows an exemplary interface 4200 including another exemplary
activity report. In this example, an activity report has been
generated based upon a selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001
age. Additionally, a selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001
can cause the system to generate one or more additional options
(e.g., options area 4201), for specifying content selection by age
(e.g., age grouping, maximum age, or minimum age). Exemplary
interface 4200 also includes a graphic interpretation 4202 of the
selected content.
[0132] FIG. 43 shows an exemplary interface 4300 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, the activity report has
been generated based upon the report dimension 4301. Report
dimension 4301 can include a selectable region 4302 that can list
one or more selectable report dimension options such as rating,
video, genre, or type of license package. In this example, an
activity report has been generated based upon a selection 4302 of
report dimension 4301 rating. Additionally, a selection 4302 of a
report dimension 4301 rating can cause the system to generate one
or more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4303), for
specifying content selection by rating. Exemplary interface 4300
also includes a graphic interpretation 4304 of the selected
content.
[0133] FIG. 44 shows an exemplary interface 4400 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, an activity report has
been generated based upon a selection 4302 of the report dimension
4301 video. Additionally, a selection 4302 of a report dimension
can cause the system to generate one or more additional options
(e.g., dropdown menu 4401), for specifying content selection by
video. Exemplary interface 4400 also includes a graphic
interpretation 4402 of the selected content. FIG. 45 shows an
exemplary interface 4500 including another example activity report.
In this example, an activity report has been generated based upon a
selection 4302 of report dimension 4301 genre. Additionally, a
selection 4302 of the report dimension 4301 can cause the system to
generate one or more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4501),
for specifying content selection by genre. Exemplary interface 4500
also includes a graphic interpretation 4502 of the selected
content.
[0134] FIG. 46 shows an exemplary interface 4400 including a pie
chart graphic interpretation 4601 of content. In this example, the
content is graphically displayed in a pie chart 4601 in accordance
with a selected 4002 report demographic 4001 gender. FIG. 47 shows
an exemplary interface 4700 including a pie chart graphic
interpretation 4701 of content. In this example, the content is
graphically displayed in a pie chart 4701 in accordance with a
selected 4302 report dimension 4301 rating. In some
implementations, one or more reports can be generated based upon
any combination of report demographic and report dimension
selections.
[0135] FIG. 48 shows an exemplary interface 4800 including a bar
chart graphic interpretation 4801 of content. In this example, the
content is graphically displayed in a bar chart 4801 in accordance
with a selected 4002 report demographic 4001 gender and a selected
4302 report dimension 4301 rating (e.g., as a cross section graphic
display by gender and rating). FIG. 49 shows an exemplary interface
4900 including a bar chart graphic interpretation 4901 of content.
In this example, the content is graphically displayed in a bar
chart 4901 in accordance with a selected 4002 report demographic
4001 gender and a selected 4302 report dimension 4301 rating (e.g.,
as a cross section graphic display by rating and gender).
[0136] FIG. 50 is a flow diagram depicting an exemplary method for
empowering content creators to market their own content without
entering into onerous one-sided agreements with content promoters
and marketers. Data and metadata corresponding to content are
received at 5002, and a first alternative for the content is
generated at 5004, where the first alternative is based on the data
and metadata. For example, the content, the metadata, and the first
alternative may be received using one or more networks by one or
more servers and may be stored in one or more computer-readable
data stores. At 5004, a selection of the first alternative is
received, where the selection of the first alternative generates
additional metadata corresponding to the content. At 5008, a second
alternative corresponding to the content is dynamically generated,
where the second alternative is based upon the generated additional
metadata.
[0137] Embodiments of the subject matter and the functional
operations described in this specification can be implemented in
digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or
hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification
and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more
of them. Embodiments of the subject matter described in this
specification can be implemented as one or more computer program
products, i.e., one or more modules of computer program
instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium for execution
by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus.
[0138] The computer-readable medium can be a machine-readable
storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, a memory
device, a composition of matter effecting a machine-readable
propagated signal, or a combination of one or more of them. The
term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all apparatus,
devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of
example a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple
processors or computers. The apparatus can include, in addition to
hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the
computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor
firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an
operating system, or a combination of one or more of them, A
propagated signal is an artificially generated signal, e.g., a
machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signal,
that is generated to encode information for transmission to
suitable receiver apparatus.
[0139] A computer program (also known as a program, software,
software application, script, or code), can be written in any form
of programming language, including compiled or interpreted
languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a
stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other
unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer
program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system.
A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other
programs or data (e.g., on or more scripts stored in a markup
language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in
question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store
one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer
program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on
multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed
across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication
network.
[0140] The processes and logic flows described in this
specification can be performed by one or more programmable
processors executing one or more computer programs to perform
functions by operating on input data and generating output. The
processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus
can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g.,
an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC
(application-specific integrated circuit). The processes and logic
flows can also be performed by one or more programmed computers
that are individually or collectively suitably programmed to the
processes and logic flows enumerated herein.
[0141] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program
include, by way of example, both general and special purpose
microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of
digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions
and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both.
The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing
instructions and one or more memory devices for storing
instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or
be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or
both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g.,
magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a
computer need not have such devices. Moreover, a computer can be
embedded in another device, e.g., a mobile telephone, a personal
digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio player, a Global
Positioning System (GPS) receiver, to name just a few.
Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program
instructions and data include all forms of nonvolatile memory,
media, and memory devices, including by way of example
semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory
devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable
disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The
processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated
in, special purpose logic circuitry.
[0142] To provide for interaction with a user, embodiments of the
subject matter described in this specification can be implemented
on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray
tube) to LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying
information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g.,
a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the
computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for
interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to
the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual
feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from
the user can be received in any from, including acoustic, speech,
or tactile input.
[0143] Embodiments of the subject matter described in this
specification can be implemented in a computing system that
includes a back-end component, e.g., as a data server, or that
includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or
that includes a front-end component, e.g., a client computer having
a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user
can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described
in this specification, or any combination of one or more such
back-end, middleware, or front-end components. The components of
the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital
data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of
communication networks include a local area network ("LAN") and a
wide area network ("WAN"), e.g., the Internet.
[0144] The computing system can include clients and servers. A
client and server are generally remote from each other and
typically interact through a communication network. The
relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer
programs running on the respective computers and having a
client-server relationship to each other.
[0145] While this specification contains many specifics, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of
features specific to particular embodiments of the invention.
Certain features that are described in this specification in the
context or separate embodiments can also be implemented in
combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features
that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also
be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any
suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be
described above as acting in certain combinations and even
initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed
combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and
the claimed combination may be directed o a subcombination or
variation of a subcombination.
[0146] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in
a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that
such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in
sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed,
to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances,
multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover,
the separation of various system components in the embodiments
described above should not be understood as requiring such
separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the
described program components and systems can generally be
integrated together in a single software product or packaged into
multiple software products.
[0147] Any of the methods of the present disclosure can be
implemented in one or more computers or computer systems. Further
still, any of the methods of the present disclosure can be
implemented in one or more computer program products. Further
still, any of the methods of the present disclosure can be
implemented in one or more apparatus.
[0148] Thus, particular embodiments of the invention have been
described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following
claims. For example, the actions recited in the claims can be
performed in a different order and still achieve desirable
results.
* * * * *